South Beach Diet Review
Quick Overview:
The South Beach Diet consists of a three-phase dieting plan that is designed around foods that have a low “glycemic index” (GI). These foods are low in carbohydrates, meaning that they don’t cause sharp increases and sudden “drops” in your blood sugar levels. Foods with a low GI are usually much healthier and keep a person’s hunger satisfied for longer periods of time. The South Beach Diet allows individuals to lose up to 13 pounds within the first two weeks, which is a huge motivator to stay on this diet!
Background:
The South Beach Diet originated in Florida, US, when a cardiologist named Dr. Arthur Agatston developed a dieting plan to help his overweight patients deal with a number of obesity-related heart problems. Dr. Agatston studied the way different foods affect our blood sugar levels and what impact they have on his patients’ insulin resistance.
Together with Marie Almon, a dietician, Dr. Agatston developed a new diet plan that promotes certain “good” foods which have a lesser impact on a person’s blood sugar levels; these foods became known as low “glycemic index” (GI) foods. Though it was initially designed for prevention of heart disease, people who went on this diet have been able to lose a lot of weight. The book, called “The South Beach Diet”, became hugely popular in the early 2000’s and has since sold over 5 million copies.
How It Works:
The South Beach Diet follows a three-phase meal plan, with only the first two weeks (Phase 1) being restrictive with respect to carbs and fats. During this phase, your “bad” food cravings are eliminated. Phase 2 re-introduces “good” carbs and fats, which makes the diet more easy-going. After a while, you transition into Phase 3, which allows you to eat most of the things you want.
Food:
The South Beach Diet provides a daily meal plan consisting of low GI foods – including snacks and desserts, so there are no unsatisfied “sudden cravings.” The book provides a list of delicious recipes that follow its three-phase diet plan, designed to kick-start your weight loss in Phase 1 and get you down to your natural healthy weight in Phase 2.
Support:
The South Beach Diet’s website provides a lot of information that will help you stay on track with your weight loss plan. Though there are no weekly meetings, you can find discussion groups and forums that will answer questions and help you along the way. It is encouraged that you keep track of your weight loss progress as this will encourage you to stick to your weight-loss program.
Exercise:
Many people have lost weight with The South Beach Diet without exercising. For best long-term results, Dr. Agatston’s website offers step-by-step videos with daily exercise routines. The main focus is on cardio workouts that strengthen muscles and help build a leaner body. There is no expensive equipment involved and anyone can do them from the comfort of their own home.
Behavior:
Phase 1 of The South Beach Diet is the toughest one to get through as it cuts out most of the “bad” foods that we all crave. The great news is that it only lasts for two weeks and can result in significant weight loss. Phase 2 of the program is much easier to handle, while individuals continue to lose 1-2 lbs a week. Because most foods are allowed in the long term of this diet, and its effectiveness is noticeable on a weekly basis, The South Beach Diet is a good way to change your eating habits and stay healthy for life.
Who is this Diet For?
The diet is great for everyone as it teaches people to overcome their cravings and develop long-term healthy eating habits. While people who are looking to lose more than 10 lbs are recommended to start with Phase 1, anyone who is looking to lose 10 lbs or less can skip ahead to a lighter Phase 2.
The Positives:
- Fast results from the start, without much exercise
- Pre-planned meals that are fairly simple to make
- Most foods are available at a local supermarket
- The South Beach Diet book costs as little as £7.76
- Worldwide proven track record of successful weight loss
- No portion control, only control over the “types” of food that can be eaten
- If you get off track, you don’t have to start over – you can continue with the diet plan
The Negatives:
- Sudden reduction in carbohydrate and fat intake during Phase 1 may be tough to handle
- It can be time-consuming to prepare some of the recommended recipes
Long Term Usage:
Phase 3 of The South Beach Diet allows dieters to eat almost any food they want. The only “medical” downside of this diet is the initial weight loss during the first two weeks (up to 13 lbs), as most doctors don’t recommend losing more than 2 lbs per week.
Category: Diet Reviews
Great info guys, really helped thanks.